Salt Splitting Processes

Salt splitting processes use ion exchange membranes to split salt solutions into their constituent parts. These membranes are made up of two ion exchange membranes – one anionic and one cationic – that can split water into hydroxyl ions and protons in an electrochemical cell.

In a two-compartment electrolysis cell, a salt solution is used as the anolyte and a base solution is used as the catholyte in a cation-exchange membrane. In the anion-exchange membrane, the acid solution is used as the anolyte while the salt is used as the catholyte.

In the innovative design of a three-compartment electrolysis cell, we utilize both anion and cation-exchange membranes to enhance the efficiency and specificity of the electrochemical reactions. The cell is divided into three distinct chambers: the anode chamber, the middle chamber, and the cathode chamber.

The anode chamber contains an acid solution serving as the anolyte. This chamber is separated from the middle chamber by an anion-exchange membrane, which allows anions to pass through while restricting cations.

The middle chamber separates the anodic electrolyte from the salt solution. It is flanked by the anion-exchange membrane on one side and a cation-exchange membrane on the other. This cation-exchange membrane separates the middle chamber from the cathode chamber and permits the passage of cations while blocking anions.

Finally, the cathode chamber contains a base solution used as the catholyte. Here, the reduction reactions take place, completing the circuit of the electrolysis process.

This three-compartment setup allows for a more controlled and targeted separation of ions, leading to increased purity of the final products. It also opens possibilities for a wider range of applications among our customers, as it can be tailored to specific electrochemical processes that require distinct anolyte and catholyte environments.

An anolyte is a solution that is generated at the anode during an electrochemical process, specifically during electrolysis. This solution is characterized by its positive charge, which is a result of the oxidation reactions occurring at the anode. Anolyte generally consists of oxidizing agents, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl), chlorine (Cl2), or other substances that contribute to its antimicrobial properties. Anolyte has extensive applications in various industries, including water treatment, agriculture, and healthcare. Its disinfecting properties make it a valuable tool for sanitizing water, surfaces, and equipment.

Additionally, anolyte plays a pivotal role in agricultural practices, serving as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional pesticides and herbicides.

A catholyte represents the solution formed at the cathode during an electrochemical process. This solution carries a negative charge as a result of the reduction reactions taking place at the cathode. Catholyte typically contains reducing agents, such as hydrogen gas (H2) or hydroxide ions (OH-), which contribute to its unique properties. Catholyte has diverse applications across several industries, particularly in the field of energy storage in the battery industry. It serves as an electrolyte in various energy storage systems, including fuel cells. The ability of catholyte to store and release electrical energy makes it an essential component of sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

The factors that affect salt splitting processes include the type of salt and base solutions, current density, initial concentrations, flow rate, and the type of membrane used. Salt splitting processes are applicable to both organic and inorganic salts and are widely used in electrochemical industry applications. Salt splitting is an environmentally friendly solution when used in the production of caustic soda, decomposition of heavily laden salt solutions for disposal, and for recovering water, nitric acid, and hydrofluoric acid from the rinse water in the pickling baths of steel.